After losing a loved one, an individual’s journey through their grief is never linear. There are many highs and lows. Timing is not equal and there is no “right” or “wrong” way to experience this. There is a variety of resources that our Aftercare team makes available to a heroic donor’s family. From honoring your loved one by sharing their story or visiting a mental health professional, your choices are uniquely suited to your situation. One way to connect with others who may have a better understanding of what you are going through is through a grief support group.
What is a Grief Support Group?
A grief support group offers a different type of mental health connection and support. It comes from being surrounded by other people who have gone down the path you are on. They have experienced a significant loss and are trying to navigate it as well. Grief support groups provide education about grief, emotional support and validation.
What can you expect when you attend a Grief Support Group?
When you enter a grief support group, you can expect a safe environment where you can express your feelings freely and share your story all while knowing the group will be non-judgmental, supportive and understanding. It will give you the opportunity to establish a connection with others which helps decrease the amount of isolation that grief brings into your life. Additionally, you will also discuss common myths about grief, learn the different ways to grieve, normalize the reactions you are having to a variety of situations and you will hear more about typical grief patterns. A grief support group is also a place for people of all beliefs and faiths to learn from each other through real-life examples. It is an opportunity to understand that there are many ways that grief shows up in someone’s life, and this is completely acceptable and natural. There are many opportunities to gather articles and reading materials from others in your group that have helped them. Lastly, they can help you develop new daily survival skills, coping mechanisms, relaxation techniques and stress management skills. This is a great opportunity to bring confidence, purpose, strength and value back to your everyday life. When you have a sounding board that is a group of individuals, it gives you a broader perspective. It also helps you to hold yourself accountable. You can share ongoing or new concerns in a consistent safe space. This pushes you forward and ultimately helps you keep moving after a setback.
Nevada Donor Network proudly offers several Grief Support Groups: